Menu

WELCOME FEST

Welcome Hope / Welcome Peace / Welcome Joy

Mission Statement

Create a space for churches of the coulee region to invite the Holy Spirit to meet new and returning college students.

Vision Statement

Encounter and reflect Jesus through unity of Churches in the La Crosse region to:

  • Relationships: Cultivate authentic friendships among college students that lead to personal encounters with Jesus and Spirit-filled connections.
  • Unity: Mobilize churches across the La Crosse region to act as one welcoming body for students of all backgrounds.
  • Hope: Establish visible, accessible Holy Spirit-filled pockets of encouragement where students find peace, support, and prayer in times of need.
  • Network: Build a coalition of Christ-centered spaces and activities that serve as spiritual homes for students.

Vision Plan

United in Spirit – A Regional Christ-Filled Event to Welcome new and returning college students to La Crosse.

Strategic Objectives

  1. Church Collaboration & Communication
    • Host regional church leader meetings focused on college outreach.
    • Develop a shared digital hub (website or app) listing churches in the La Crosse region, Bible studies, events, and ministries tailored for young adults.
  2. Campus Engagement & Welcome Events
    • Partner with local universities to host Spirit-led welcome events during student orientation and move-in weekends.
    • Create volunteer campus teams representing various churches to offer prayer, hospitality, and info about faith-based gatherings.
  3. Relationship-Focused Programming
    • Promote weekly small groups or “Holy Spirit Hangouts” across campuses and churches focused on friendship, faith, and real conversation.  (CRU, College Community, ALPHA, Newman Center etc.)
    • Train student leaders to host discipleship groups rooted in authenticity and care.
  4. Hope Initiatives
    • Support “Hope Groups” on or near campus—quiet spaces for prayer, encouragement, and listening. (CRU, College Community, ALPHA, Newman Center, etc.)
  5. Unified Worship & Service
    • Organize quarterly worship nights co-hosted by multiple churches, highlighting unity in Christ.
    • Launch regional service projects that unite students and churches in acts of compassion and justice.